As we have seen over the last number of years, aging and declining congregations struggle to maintain their Churches open in many denominations. Providing general maintenance to Church grounds, too, continues to pose a challenge as small congregations with few resources housed in aging structures are committed to keeping their doors open.

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, located at 33-50 82nd Street, has been no exception. With a small congregation and limited resources, a project like painting the fence surrounding the Church grounds has presented a real challenge. The last time the fence was painted (about 50 years ago!) remains one of the fondest memories for some parishioners. It was an event that brought not just the congregation together, but connected it to the community at large. A “cradle” St. Mark’s parishioner recalled her memory of the day with a nostalgic crack in her voice. The first time the congregation came together to paint the old-fashioned wrought iron fence, they received support from neighbors who came over when seeing the parishioners’ efforts. It was a great moment for St. Mark’s community!

People got to know their neighbors and the interest of the community in helping maintain the grounds, a jewel in the community, is reason for the joy with which members of St. Mark’s continue to remember that day.

The fence has since rusted and has peeled somewhat with time. Re-painting it as a community would be a welcome event once again. St. Mark’s community puts a call out to our neighbors and friends: we need your help!

Please come on October 4 and on the 11th at 8 AM (we’re dedicating two Saturdays to this project). Not much of a morning person? We plan to be there from 8 AM until 4 PM. Come when you can; we would love to meet you if you’re new to the neighborhood, or catch up if you’ve been a long time neighbor (chances are you know someone at St. Mark’s given that parishioners are long-time residents of Jackson Heights who maintain strong friendships over generations). We would really appreciate any help you can lend us! Hope to see you then!